How To Brine Cure Ham Without Nitrates

Brine Curing Ham Without Nitrates

Brine curing ham without nitrates is a great way to enjoy the delicious flavor of ham without the use of potentially harmful chemicals. By using a simple brine solution and a few key ingredients, you can create a flavorful and savory ham that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

When brining and curing ham without nitrates, it’s important to use the right ingredients to ensure that the ham is both safe to eat and full of flavor. Here are the ingredients you will need:

• 1 gallon of water
• 1 cup of kosher salt
• 1 cup of brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons of black peppercorns
• 4-5 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon of allspice berries
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 fresh ham, preferably bone-in

Instructions

Now that you have gathered your ingredients, it’s time to start the brine curing process. Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious ham without nitrates:

1. In a large pot, combine the water, kosher salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, garlic, cloves, allspice berries, and cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring to dissolve the salt and sugar.
2. Once the mixture has come to a boil, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.
3. Place the fresh ham in a large container or brining bag, and pour the cooled brine mixture over the ham, making sure it is completely submerged.
4. Refrigerate the ham in the brine for 1 day per 2 pounds of meat, turning the ham occasionally to ensure that it cures evenly.
5. After the brining process is complete, remove the ham from the brine and rinse it thoroughly under cold water.
6. Pat the ham dry with paper towels and allow it to air dry in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cooking.

Cooking the Ham

Once your ham has been brine cured without nitrates, it’s ready to be cooked and enjoyed. There are many delicious ways to prepare and cook a ham, from roasting it in the oven to smoking it on the grill. Whichever method you choose, be sure to cook the ham to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure that it is safe to eat.

By brine curing ham without nitrates, you can enjoy the delicious flavor of ham without the use of potentially harmful chemicals. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a flavorful and savory ham that is perfect for any occasion.